Used as a rodenticide and molluscicide in agriculture and gardening, particularly for controlling slugs and snails in organic farming. It is considered a safer alternative to more toxic pesticides because it breaks down into naturally occurring substances in the environment. When ingested by target pests, it disrupts their digestive system, leading to death, while posing minimal risk to pets, wildlife, and humans when used as directed. Also used in some water treatment processes to control phosphate levels and prevent scaling.